The Diversion Program is a voluntary alternative to the formal court process for most first time offending youth. Those referred to the program have committed a law violation and a police report has been submitted to the Prosecuting Attorney's Office. Those cases meeting certain criteria are "diverted" to the Youth Accountability Board. The Board is comprised of community volunteers trained to meet the youths and prepare written Diversion Agreements.

Agreements may include community service work, apology letters, reports, restitution, and random drug testing. Also offered are a shoplifting awareness course, anger management, job skills development, and a job mentoring program. The staff supervises the youth through the completion of the Diversion Agreement and maintains weekly contact with those in the program.

Diversion is a cost effective method of dealing with first time offenders by eliminating the formal court proceeding. The youth is held accountable for their offense through the "Balanced Approach" method.

The recidivism rate is reduced by the staff working cooperatively with local schools, community organizations, and professional agencies. The Diversion Program has maintained approximately an 80% success rate since 1982.